Description

Book Synopsis

Daniel Wickberg traces the cultural history of the concept from its British origins as a way to explore new conceptions of the self and social order in modern America.



Trade Review

Using a vast range of materials (jokes, jests, and gags) and writers of every ilk (Carlyle, Chaplin, Freud, Twain), Wickberg charts the development of the modern sense of humor. The book suggests a great deal about American society and its values, and leads readers to recognize the socially constructed nature of reality. Because of its intriguing topic and engaging writing, this book will interest a broad variety of readers—from undergraduates through faculty—in many disciplines. Highly recommended.

* Choice *

Wickberg adds a new dimension to our knowledge of contemporary cultural sensibility. He also does what surely all good cultural historians do; he redraws the boundaries of what lies within history, and makes us look again at social habits and assumptions that we had perhaps taken for granted.

* Times Literary Supplement *

The Senses of Humor

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    A Paperback / softback by Daniel Wickberg

    £27.54

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      Book details

      Publisher Cornell University Press
      Published 18 June 2015
      ISBN-13 9780801456664
      978-0801456664
      ISBN-10 0801456665
      Also in:
      Literary studies: fiction Literature: history and criticism

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      Daniel Wickberg traces the cultural history of the concept from its British origins as a way to explore new conceptions of the self and social order in modern America.



      Trade Review

      Using a vast range of materials (jokes, jests, and gags) and writers of every ilk (Carlyle, Chaplin, Freud, Twain), Wickberg charts the development of the modern sense of humor. The book suggests a great deal about American society and its values, and leads readers to recognize the socially constructed nature of reality. Because of its intriguing topic and engaging writing, this book will interest a broad variety of readers—from undergraduates through faculty—in many disciplines. Highly recommended.

      * Choice *

      Wickberg adds a new dimension to our knowledge of contemporary cultural sensibility. He also does what surely all good cultural historians do; he redraws the boundaries of what lies within history, and makes us look again at social habits and assumptions that we had perhaps taken for granted.

      * Times Literary Supplement *

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